This result was down by five per cent compared to the fourth quarter of 2013. The amount of space leased was down for the industrial and commercial/retail segments and up for the office segment.

Average lease rates for properties leased on a per square foot net basis (where pricing was disclosed) were little changed compared to Q4 2013 for industrial and office properties. The average lease rate for commercial/retail properties was up on a year-over-basis. Generally speaking, average lease rate increases or decreases result from both a change in market conditions and a change in the mix and type of properties leased from one year to the next.

“The third quarter result for Canadian Gross Domestic Product represented relatively strong economic growth and included an increase in exports, which is a positive for many businesses operating in south central Ontario. Notwithstanding the stock market turmoil experienced during the fourth quarter of 2014, it is quite possible that the lower value of the Canadian dollar could prompt further demand for Canadian exports. This could lead some GTA firms to step up their search for new space as the demand for their goods and/or services increases,” said Mr. Etherington.

Total commercial sales in the fourth quarter, at 243, were down in comparison to the same period last year, when 336 properties were reported sold. While the number of transactions were down, average selling prices on a per square foot basis (where pricing was disclosed) were up for industrial and office properties, and down only slightly for commercial/retail properties.

“Looking forward through 2015, the Greater Toronto Area continues to be a global region with a diversified economy and a high quality of life. These attributes will continue to put the Toronto area in good stead, as it relates to attracting businesses and new comers from around the world,” continued Mr. Etherington.

Fourth Quarter 2014: All Commercial Lease Transactions

Total Leased Space for All Lease Transaction Types on TorontoMLS

Total Leased Square Feet

Q4 2014

Q4 2013

% Change

Industrial

3,703,054

4,123,037

-10.2%

Commercial

565,962

568,860

-0.5%

Office

850,986

695,362

22.4%

Total

5,120,001

5,387,259

-5.0%

Fourth Quarter 2014: Average Per Square Foot Net Lease Rates

Lease Transactions Completed on a Per Square Foot Net Basis with Pricing Disclosed on TorontoMLS